Government sounds alarm over rising accidents in Namayingo gold mines

The Ugandan government has issued a stern warning to artisanal gold miners in Namayingo District regarding a disturbing increase in accidents linked to unsafe practices and non-compliance with regulations. Thousands of miners are reportedly at risk due to deteriorating safety standards.

During a recent sensitisation campaign organized by the Department of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH), officials highlighted critical issues. Deputy Resident District Commissioner Yakuti Kalange expressed concern over miners working without essential protective gear, inadequate sanitation, and overcrowded sites, emphasizing the challenges in achieving compliance.

The use of hazardous chemicals like sodium cyanide and mercury in gold processing was also flagged as a significant health and environmental hazard if not managed properly. Furthermore, illegal mining activities have led to deep pits being dug along major roads, threatening infrastructure and increasing maintenance costs for the government.

Dalton Bakisuula, representing DOSH, pointed out that many miners face workplace hazards and improper chemical handling. He expressed particular concern over abandoned open pits, which pose a grave danger to both miners and the community. Bakisuula urged mine operators to fence off excavations and adhere to safety standards, warning against pits exceeding 10 meters in depth due to risks of collapse and oxygen deprivation.

Environmental concerns were voiced by Hajarah Nakiberu from the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA), who noted increased mining in wetlands and announced impending crackdowns on illegal operations in protected areas. She stressed the importance of observing wetland buffer zones, adopting eco-friendly practices, and implementing proper water management, including using reserve tanks to prevent contaminated water from reaching natural water sources.

Representatives from the Namayingo Bukoma Gold Miners Cooperative Society called for streamlined processes for obtaining Environmental Impact and Social Assessment (ESIA) reports to facilitate legal operations. The government is pushing for responsible mining to protect lives and natural resources, aiming to formalize the sector and curb accidents and illegal activities.

Namayingo has seen several gold rushes since 2024, attracting numerous miners. A previous closure of the Mpano gold mining site in October 2024 for similar violations did not deter new operations. The ongoing campaign intends to educate miners on safety, environmental conservation, and legal mining practices.

This report is based on information from Nile Post.